36 years. That’s how long it’s been since the first “Top Gun” movie starring Tom Cruise; the film that is still quoted, referenced, and catapulted the young heartthrob to ever-lasting stardom. The sequel, “Top Gun: Maverick” picks up decades after the tragic ending of the original. Maverick (Cruise), the nickname defining him, continues to buck the system and all who regulate it as the first scene shows the veteran pilot taking a plane to unprecedented speeds, Mach 10 (plus) against orders. This lands him not in trouble—thanks to Ice (Val Kilmer)— but back at the Top Gun training facility in charge of 10 new green-pilots who must complete a death-defying mission to save the world from eminent nuclear threat.
Maverick’s unorthodox training methods allow him to earn the trust of his new students…all but one: Lt. Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw, Goose’s son. There’s a beef between the two of them, something more than the fact that Rooster’s father perished in a tragic accident that perhaps was Maverick’s fault. This will become an integral storyline later in the film, driving the relationship between the two men to a crossroads.
This story predominantly highlights the skill of naval pilots, one which leaves you breathless and in awe. Beneath the surface, however, there are several relationships which mirror the original film almost exactly. There’s a love story with Penny (Jennifer Connelly) with a backstory, and an antagonistic one between Rooster and Hangman (Glen Powell). And “Top Gun” wouldn’t be complete without the taskmaster who doesn’t believe in Maverick now played by Jon Hamm as Adm. Beau Cyclone Simpson.
These relationships, while not the entire focus of the film, are what hook you, but the flying is what keeps you on the edge of your seat. Knowing that this is not a special effect or a green screen elevates your admiration to stratospheric levels. And the reactions of the pilots are actual reactions to pulling G’s makes your own heart rate skyrocket and sink to your stomach all at the same time. It’s cinematically stunning to have captured all of this as it stitches together the story of a final mission racing against the clock and enemy attack.
Cruise’s confidence pours over the film as he speeds in any vehicle he’s given. He is meant for this role and to reprise Maverick in this sequel. The supporting cast of pilots is balanced even with Hangman’s one-dimensional character. His non-stop cocky smirk grates on your nerves, knowing that that’s exactly what the director (Joseph Kosinski) wants you to feel. Teller, on the other hand, seems a bit awkward in this role as he flounders to find the right tone. And I question the use of the mustache to tie him to his dear old dad…was that really necessary? It makes him look like a character out of the ’70’s or worse. However, Connelly and Cruise give us an authentic relationship that is sweet and sincere particularly as Connelly’s character teaches this naval pilot how to sail the rough waters. Additionally, having Kilmer make an appearance is priceless.
“Maverick” exceeds expectations and takes the “Top Gun” franchise to a new level with a similar (and dare I say exact replication) of the first one, but the relationships and interactions create a better one. This is NOT to be seen at home! The cinematography that captures the intricacies, dangers, and precision of flying are meant to be seen on the big screen.
3 Stars